Nantes, Eco Congress City Between the Loire and the Atlantic

The Atlantic-side city of Nantes, elected European Green Capital 2013, was once the capital of Brittany and France’s foremost port. Now it’s more like a lively, open-air museum, a cultural hotspot full of history - boasting the last Castle of the Loire Valley, the Château des ducs de Bretagne - and an excellent destination for business tourism.

Creativity, Nantes’ hallmark
Famous throughout the world, the Machines de l’Ile reflect the creative spirit in Nantes. They are also testament to the ability of the city to make things happen in a destination that takes a bold approach to innovation and creativity.

The Journey to Nantes with its fantastic machines and urban itinerary, indeed showcases Nantes as a thriving, amazing city. With activities ranging from a ride on a Giant Elephant to meetings or gatherings in the most contemporary architectural sites of the Creative arts District, A Journey to Nantes’ team can create weird and wonderful experiences that participants will remember for years to come.

Nantes, sustainable destination par excellence
The European Green Capital 2013, Nantes makes sustainable development a key aspect of its business tourism offering. With nearly half the 9,000 hotel rooms distinguished by an eco-label, Nantes Saint-Nazaire is poised to become the first urban eco-destination in France.

The same is true for the main venues, which are eco-certified and meet international standards. For instance, La Cité Nantes Events Center has established itself as the only convention centre in France certified Gold level under AIPC Quality Standards,as it successfully addresses the issues of social and environmental responsibility. On top of that, La Cité’s elegant architecture, ease of access and dedicated facilities make it an attractive and welcoming venue within walking distance to most hotels, restaurants, shops and tourist attractions.

Similarly, located amidst lush greenery, Exponantes Park is the first exhibition centre in Europe which has obtained the ISO 14001 certification.

No wonder, then, Nantes Saint-Nazaire is an eco-metropolis attracting business executives, young employees and students every year. With its exceptionally wide range of technical competences such as aeronautics, naval, and energy, it’s a destination like no other.

Nantes in the world's top 10 bike-friendly cities
For sure, this must be one of the reasons why ECF, the European Cyclist Federation and joint organiser of Velo-City, has chosen Nantes for this year’s congress beginning of June. 5th in the list of the World’s Most Bike-Friendly Cities, Nantes is expecting more than 1,500 people to attend Velo-City.

www.nantes-just-imagine.com